The Great Indian Invasion (Except It's Totally Peaceful): How Many Desis Are in the Big Apple?
You might be wondering, "Hey, with all this delicious butter chicken and fragrant chai wafting through the streets, just how many Indians are there in New York City?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the fascinating world of the desi diaspora (that's the fancy term for Indians living abroad) in the concrete jungle where dreams are made of (and apparently, aloo pakoras are devoured).
Estimating the Empire State of Desi-ness
Figuring out the exact number of Indians in New York City is like counting pigeons in Central Park – there's a whole lot of them, and they're pretty good at blending in (though maybe with a bit more spice). Here's what we do know:
- New York City boasts the biggest Indian population in all of North America, with estimates hovering around a whopping 246,454 as of 2017. That's like a whole other Agra chilling in the city that never sleeps!
- The New York City metropolitan area ups the ante to a staggering 700,000 Indian Americans, making it the largest metropolitan Indian population in the entire Western Hemisphere. Now that's a lotta samosas!
Where's the Curry Hill Crew?
If you're looking to get your fill of friendly faces and fantastic food, head over to the vibrant Indian enclaves. Here are some hotspots:
- Curry Hill (between 25th and 30th Streets on Lexington Avenue in Manhattan): This aptly named area is a haven for South Indian cuisine, so get ready to unleash your inner dosa-devouring champion.
- Queens: Home to a large and flourishing Indian community, Queens offers a delightful mix of restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
Fun Facts That Didn't Make the Masala
- The Indian influence on New York goes beyond just food. From Bollywood movie nights to vibrant cultural celebrations like Diwali, the city embraces its desi spirit with open arms (and maybe a few extra napkins).
- The term "Curry Hill" is kind of a nickname, but it perfectly captures the essence of this aromatic neighborhood.
How Many Indians Are There in New York? FAQs
- How to find Indian restaurants in New York City? There are countless options! Look online or explore neighborhoods like Curry Hill and Jackson Heights in Queens.
- How to experience Indian culture in New York? Check out events like Diwali celebrations, attend movie screenings at the Indo-American Arts Council, or visit cultural centers.
- How to say "hello" in Hindi? "Namaste!" is a good all-purpose greeting.
- How to spot an Indian in New York? (Just kidding!) It's not always easy, but sometimes following the enticing aroma of spices might lead you in the right direction.
- How to get involved with the Indian American community in New York? There are many organizations and groups, so do some research online to find one that interests you.
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